General News
27 April, 2026
Community turns out for Anzac Day remembrance
On April 25, Australians gathered for Anzac Day to honour those who have served in the nation's defence forces and to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Across the Wimmera, thousands attended services that served as poignant reminders of the hardships faced by soldiers 111 years ago.
In Horsham, about 1500 community members gathered at the cenotaph in darkness to commemorate the 463 souls who paid the ultimate price, including 48 in Gallipoli.
Led by Horsham RSL president Gareth Lane, the service heard from dignitaries including Horsham Rural City Council mayor Brian Klowss and guest speaker David Eltringham.
“We can never underestimate the significance of Anzac Day,” Cr Klowss said
“We not only commemorate the sacrifice of the Australians and New Zealanders who gave their lives for the country… It's a day for reflection.
“How marvellous it is to see so many people here today. I never cease to be impressed by the numbers of those who attend… especially our young people.
“This, for me, is one of the most significant aspects of our dawn service. To know our local community is invested.”
Mr Eltringham reflected on the first Anzac Day, held on April 25, 1916, with a dawn service in Egypt organised by General Sir John Monash, and on the significant battles the Anzacs fought in subsequent years.
Local residents lined Firebrace Street for the traditional march, where veterans, family members, and community groups participated in a procession over 100 metres long.
While Anzac Day originally marked the first anniversary of the Gallipoli landing, it now honours all conflicts across World War I, World War II, Korea, Borneo, Malaya, Vietnam, Bougainville, Iraq, East Timor, Afghanistan, and the Middle East.
Horsham RSL secretary David Ellis, who emceed the main service, noted that while many names appear on the Sawyer Park memorial, thousands of other Wimmera men and women who served are equally important.
“It is safe to say that anyone who has been a defence member did not join to have their name on a memorial, but out of duty to this great nation.
“Today is not a sad day, but one to reflect on those who gave their lives so we can live ours.”
Both services included prayers led by Adam Borgas, special ministry pastor, who also recited the Lord's Prayer.
Mr Eltringham also spoke about the significance of General Sir John Monash and the history of the Horsham Cenotaph.
School captains from St Brigid's College, Horsham College, Holy Trinity Lutheran College, and Horsham Special School participated in the service. Ebony Hart performed both the New Zealand and Australian national anthems.
After the commemorative service, attendees gathered at the RSL club, where many took part in two-up and crown-and-anchor.
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